November 30, 2020 - Retirement, losses of partners, and changing health and functional status are all risk factors for increased social isolation and loneliness among older adults. Rural residents face additional structural risk factors, such as transportation challenges, less access to broadband internet, and more limited economic resources. Addressing the structural determinants of social contact is at least as important as clinical strategies, such as screenings and interpersonal programming.
Additional creative solutions are required to combat social isolation and loneliness among older adults living in rural areas. Health care professionals may consider collaborating with community partners to reduce isolation and loneliness. Delivery drivers, store clerks, bank tellers, and faith-based organizations that have regular contact with community members may be able to detect loneliness in individuals before health care professionals have the opportunity.
Read the full article from the Journal of the American Medical Association.
